SMRT CEO Desmond Kuek stepping down

Singapore

SMRT chief executive Desmond Kuek is stepping down after 5½ years at the helm, and his successor is expected to be former chief of defence force Neo Kian Hong, according to reliable sources.

Mr Neo, 54, is currently permanent secretary for defence development. He had succeeded Mr Kuek, 55, as chief of defence force in 2010.

The Straits Times understands a formal announcement of the change could be made as early as Wednesday, after months of speculation that Mr Kuek will vacate his post.

A Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) overseas scholar and a guardsman, Mr Neo had a 30-year military career, rising to the rank of lieutenant-general. He was chief of army from 2007 to 2010 and chief of defence force from 2010 to March 201…